Resurrecting The Ferry…

Our original interstates were waterways traversing some of the greatest cities and harbor towns at ports worldwide. Well into the early 20th century, from the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes to the merchant guilds of Northern Europe, locals and visitors alike traveled by water. Right here in Northern Michigan, from the early to mid-1900s, the original Little Traverse Bay Ferry Company provided transportation between the beautiful ports of Petoskey and Harbor Springs to thousands of passengers each season. 

After over six decades without public water transportation supporting our lakeside communities, it is time to rediscover the ancient virtues of water travel, unite the bay, and revive the Little Traverse Bay Ferry Company. 

Northern Michigan continues to be one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Midwest and has experienced significant growth in the business sector. Growing traffic, seasonal road construction, and many people’s desire to truly experience Northern Michigan can make visiting our corner of paradise a challenge. But let the Little Traverse Ferry Company do the work for you as we UNITE the BAY. Enjoy the unique opportunity to arrive in the charming downtowns of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, or Bay Harbor in style aboard the 52-foot-long ferry boat. You can shop, eat, and explore without the hassle of driving or the frustration of finding parking for your car or boat. All you have to do is purchase a ticket, climb aboard, enjoy the spectacular views of Little Traverse Bay, and let us deliver you to one of the jewels in Northern Michigan’s crown.

The Ferry is the best way to navigate Little Traverse Bay!! 

Our Mission

Reviving northern Michigan traditions to provide unique travel and educational experiences for all ages while connecting and promoting our lakeside communities.

Northern Michigan residents, resorters, and visitors have expressed their support for the Little Traverse Bay Ferry. A passenger ferry hasn’t been in operation on Little Traverse Bay in over 80 years, and we are truly excited to recreate the service back to our local communities.

Little Traverse Bay Ferry will provide a unique transportation experience to all who find themselves in our area. Whether you are here for a day, a week, or the summer, the ferry will be here to provide you with memories to last a lifetime.

Community Impact

The Ferry will offer the opportunity to eliminate the drive to visit neighboring cities during the summer and will provide a relaxing and comfortable boat ride across the beautiful Little Traverse Bay. For some, it’s an opportunity to enjoy a boat ride for the first time, and for others, it will provide a unique daily commute. Local educators will be able to utilize the ferry as an outdoor classroom for all age groups.

We look forward to including as many local teachers as possible in our diverse programs. Veterans and seniors may qualify for reduced fees. The new ferry is fully ADA compliant for ease of use.